Orlando : Florida

What it's Like to Retire in Orlando

Orlando, Florida in the last 36 years went from being a regional town to one of Florida's largest cities. Now with a population of 231,000 (and 2 million in the Metro), it is not only a booming city and immensely popular vacation destination, but also a mecca for retirement communities. Walt Disney got it all started when his company purchased vast tracts of land in this former farming area and announced plans to construct Disney World in 1965. Epcot followed and now Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The area is also home to countless Central Florida retirement communities.

Photo of Universal Studios courtesy of Wikipedia and Matthew Cockerill.

Where to Retire in Orlando and Home Prices

The suburbs and area around Orlando are home to many communities, since Orlando is somewhat urban. There are historic neighborhoods such as Lake Cherokee and Lake Eola Heights (see photo above). Celebration FL is a Disney built community in the "new urbanism" style. Homes and condos are available at every end of the spectrum, from manufactured home communities to exclusive enclaves that are home to some of America's wealthiest celebrities.The median selling price of a home in Orlando is way down vs. the giddy heights of 2006. The median selling price was $207,600 in the first quarter of 2016, according to the National Association of Realtors, a steady increase since the first quarter of 2015 with the median price at $186,000.

What is special about Orlando

University of Central Florida; the 2nd biggest in the state. Disney World, Epcot, MGM Studios ,and untold other tourist destinations. A vibrant economy that goes beyond tourism. Some historic districts. Great winter climate. Many cultural venues. Little Saigon section of town. Very diverse and international

What is not special about Orlando

High crime rates in the city. An urban experience that is crowded with tourists. Severe weather storms can happen

Local economy is driven by

Climate and Physical Environment

Located near the center of the state. The terrain is flat and low. Summers are quite hot and humid, winters are mild.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Orlando approved the construction of a major new performing arts center in 2007. The University of Central Florida provides many cultural events. Some of the many theatres in Orlando include the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre, Orlando Repertory Theatre (Central Florida's only Professional Theatre for Young Audiences), Orlando Theatre Project, Mad Cow Theatre, and Theatre Downtown. There is a popular film festival and many theatre companies and movie theatres. Thanks to the tourist industry there are countless restaurants and museums, not to mention Disney World, Epcot, and more.

Crime

Crime in Orlando is high - just over half the national average.

Medical facilities

There are 3 hospitals in Orlando, including Florida Hospital and Orlando Regional

Transportation

Orlando International is one of the world's busiest airports with connections to just about anywhere. Amtrak has service to Orlando, along with some light rail service

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Live like you're on vacation every day at Gulfstream Harbor. Enjoy the tranquility of a wooded nature preserve right in your backyard. Discover a place where you can get involved, make new friends, stay in shape, and enjoy fun in the sun. Orlando is .....